Every year approximately 35.5 million Americans move to a new home. Although moving can be a source of excitement if you’re starting a new job or buying a new house, it’s one of the leading causes of stress people experience during their lifetime.
Moving is a lot of work, and you may be reluctant to move unnecessarily. One way to be sure moving is in your best interests is to consider these factors, which can all be signs that it’s time to find a new home.
1. Lack of Space
You may be running out of space if your family has grown or if you’ve been in your home for several years. Over time, people often accumulate more belongings, which take up space. If you’ve had children, you may have family members waiting to use the bathroom or arguing because they have to share a bedroom. You may also have older family members who may need to move in with you if they cannot live independently. Lack of space can lead to conflict and tension. Moving may reduce household stress.
2. Career Opportunities
New work opportunities can be a good reason to relocate. You may be working at the same location, but need to travel out of town regularly or be available to work longer hours if you’re in a new position. Moving to be closer to the airport or your workplace can reduce your commute times and ensure you can meet your career’s changing demands.
3. Changes in the Neighborhood
Neighborhoods can change over time. New people may move in. New access roads or rezoning can change traffic patterns and affect property values. When a neighborhood’s property value declines, local crime may increase. This can make you feel unsafe and also affect your insurance costs.
If your insurance costs have risen, use a home insurance compare tool to evaluate your insurance options. You will be able to compare deductible rates and monthly fees. You can also learn about what each plan covers. If all insurance providers have increased rates for your area, it could indicate that local crime has increased. When you explore new potential neighborhoods, use the home insurance comparison tool to see if your costs will decrease.
4. Empty Nest
You may have unused space in your home if you’ve gotten divorced or had grown children move away to attend college or start their careers. It can be tempting to stay in the same home for a few years to accommodate your family when they visit, but you will incur the cost of maintaining a large home that you no longer need. When your adult children have all gotten married or started their careers, it’s the perfect time to consider downsizing.
5. Upgrades and Repairs
If you bought an older home or have lived in your home for many years, there may be several features or systems that need to be upgraded or repaired. You may not want to invest the time and money into significant upgrades if you plan to move in a few years. If your home needs a new furnace or it’s time for pool renovations, you may want to consider moving instead. You may also want to invest in upgrades such as pool renovations before selling your home to secure a reasonable price. It’s a good idea to consider the cost of upgrades against the potential increase in your home’s value to determine whether you should call a contractor or a real estate agent.
6. Transit Time
Lengthy work commutes can be physically and mentally taxing. If you’re frustrated by the amount of time you spend in your car, it might be time to consider relocating. Moving can promote long-term relaxation and reduce your mental stress because you’ll be able to spend more time at home.
7. Frustration
You may have had a limited budget when you purchased your home, or your needs may have changed since you moved in. Consequently, you may be frustrated because your home does not meet your needs. If you’re irritated by a lack of closet and cupboard space or an awkward floor plan, it might be time to consider moving. When the home’s layout and features are the issues, your home will be a constant source of stress until you renovate or move.
